New windows have smaller glass area

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MB_Yeti
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Joined: Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:23 pm

New windows have smaller glass area

#1 Post by MB_Yeti »

Hi everyone.

We just had a couple of our original, builder grade windows replaced and the glass area is approximately 1.5" to 2" smaller both vertically and horizontally compared to our original windows.

My question is, is it common for new windows to have smaller glass areas compared to builder grade windows?

I'm wondering if the following could account for the smaller glass size:
- conservative measurement margin of ~0.5" (i.e. 0.25" on all sides) to account for out of square frame, etc.
- new windows have wider frames (more insulation) compared to builder grade windows.
- OR, was an error made by the manufacturing/installation company?

The company had told us prior to ordering the windows that they use a fibreglass window frame and that we could expect more glass area compared to other companies which use PVC window frames, so the smaller glass area was a surprise to us!

Any thoughts/opinions/explanations/experiences are very welcomed!!

Thanks,
Mark

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Windows on Washington
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Location: DC Metropolitan Area-Maryland/Virginia/DC

Re: New windows have smaller glass area

#2 Post by Windows on Washington »

Let's see some measurements on what you have.

Often cited claim by fiberglass manufacturers, but not necessarily true if you are looking at one of the narrower profile vinyl windows.

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toddinmn
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Joined: Tue Jan 06, 2009 9:02 pm

Re: New windows have smaller glass area

#3 Post by toddinmn »

It is normal if inserts were installed into the existing frames.

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HomeSealed
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Location: Milwaukee, Madison, SE Wisconsin

Re: New windows have smaller glass area

#4 Post by HomeSealed »

Good info above, there are multiple possible causes here:
-Install type (pocket replacements if chosen are downsized by definition)
-Window choice, some are more slim-lined than others
-Measurements. Its possible that they were measured small, but based on your reference of .25" on each side, that is not small if true.

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Windows on Washington
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Location: DC Metropolitan Area-Maryland/Virginia/DC

Re: New windows have smaller glass area

#5 Post by Windows on Washington »

+1.

Between two fairly popular brands that are discussed on here and one of which is available at the big box stores...there is almost a full 1" in terms of frame size on EACH SIDE.

If your contractor is not cognizant of that...you can get a very bulky looking window...really quickly.

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